ABSTRACT
Thomas Edison’s nineteenth-century electric distribution system relied on direct current (DC) power generation, delivery, and use. In fact, a data-center industry group formed in late 2005 with support from the California Energy Commission through the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory is exploring the challenge of determining how DC power delivery systems can reduce energy needs and enhance the performance of data centers. For example, Baldwin Technologies, which does system design, has promoted benefits of a DC power delivery system for data centers. This chapter discusses some of the barriers and research needs presented by DC power delivery systems. As the smart grid evolves, it may be appropriate to rethink the wider use of DC power distribution in buildings. Direct current is a continuous flow of electricity in one direction through a wire or conductor. Direct current is created by generators such as fuel cells or photovoltaic cells, and by static electricity, lightning, and batteries.
